Cuttack, Dec 15 (NationPress) Former Odisha MLA and prominent figure Mohammed Moquim, expelled from Congress due to alleged "anti-party activities," stated on Monday that both party national president Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi are "failing to deliver," emphasizing the need for a shift in leadership.

It is noteworthy that Moquim, who is the father of the current Cuttack-Barabati MLA Sofia Firdous, has recently ignited controversy within the party by criticizing All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Odisha PCC president Bhakta Charan Das in a letter addressed to Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Moquim asserted that following a series of electoral defeats, Congress must implement essential changes to avoid further decline.

He elaborated on his correspondence to Sonia Gandhi, his discussions with Rahul Gandhi six months prior, and his views on the leadership of Congress, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Kharge.

Here are highlights from the interview:

IANS: After writing to the CPP chairperson, Sonia Gandhi, you were expelled from Congress for alleged anti-party activities. What are your thoughts on this?

Mohammed Moquim: Although I have been expelled, my assertions were accurate. As a dedicated party member, I feel it is my duty to share the truth with Sonia Gandhi and the party, especially after enduring multiple election losses, including six in Odisha.

The party is struggling to resonate with the public. I provided insights to shed light on Mallikarjun Kharge and the party's image that is under national scrutiny. I hoped these suggestions would be taken seriously for corrective action.

Rahul Gandhi encouraged us, saying, 'Don't be frightened; each of my workers is a lion, a formidable lion.' I believed we could express our suggestions without fear. However, my expulsion showed me that my input was unwelcome and part of a public relations exercise.

IANS: You met with Rahul Gandhi six months ago. What topics did you discuss? Did you offer your suggestions then?

Mohammed Moquim: Six months ago, when Rahul Gandhi visited Odisha, I didn't engage in a one-on-one discussion. In a meeting that included K.C. Venugopal, I pointed out that the Congress party in Odisha was not operating effectively and emphasized the need for changes.

At the national level, Mallikarjun Kharge is unable to resolve issues, and Rahul Gandhi is also struggling to produce results; a team of leaders is essential to advance the Congress agenda. Without corrective measures, the party risks gradual decline. I expressed my concerns in writing and have no regrets about it, despite the party's response.

Nevertheless, I remain hopeful that the conversations sparked by my letter will encourage CWC members to address this matter and redirect the party.

IANS: You mentioned that Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are not effectively managing the party. Can you elaborate?

Mohammed Moquim: As the party president, Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi are witnessing continuous electoral defeats. After the parliamentary elections, we lost in five states. This indicates a pressing need for significant reforms. We must discover ways to engage with people at the grassroots level to rejuvenate the Congress party. Focusing solely on election campaigns will not yield victory.

We need a structural and organizational overhaul, which I proposed in my letter. However, instead of considering my suggestions, the party chose to expel me. I prefer not to elaborate further on the party, but the Congress remains in my thoughts.

IANS: Do you believe Priyanka Gandhi Vadra should lead Congress? You have mentioned this previously. What is your perspective?

Mohammed Moquim: After Rahul Gandhi resigned following electoral losses, he accepted responsibility. Now that Priyanka Gandhi is active in politics, I suggested forming a team under her leadership to ignite a movement.

IANS: You have indicated that age is not in favor of Kharge and that he cannot effectively lead Congress. Why do you think this?

Mohammed Moquim: Regarding Kharge, age is a factor that works against him. As the opposition party, we need to work hard to regain power. The role of the party president is crucial, and he should wield influence. Unfortunately, his age is a disadvantage. I advised making him an advisor while introducing younger individuals into leadership roles.

I communicated these thoughts to Sonia Gandhi, which reached her attention and was discussed among the higher-ups. I am disappointed that I was not consulted before this decision.

IANS: Will you be forming a new party?

Mohammed Moquim: I am a political individual around the clock, dedicated to societal welfare. I require time to consider my next steps. I was unaware that the party would take such extreme measures. My future actions will depend on consultations with my advisors.

I was part of Congress, and these individuals were my friends. I hope there was no personal animosity. My aim was to instigate reforms within the party. I sincerely hope the current leadership can steer Congress in the right direction.